Veteran journalist Richard Cohen, husband of Meredith Vieira, passed away on Christmas Eve at the age of 76. He faced a remarkable journey, living more than five decades with multiple sclerosis and overcoming two cancer diagnoses.
The news of his passing was shared on the Today show on Tuesday, January 7. Anchor Hoda Kotb revealed that Cohen was “surrounded by his family and love” in his final moments. He is survived by his wife, Vieira, and their three children: daughter Lily, 32, and sons Gabriel, 34, and Benjamin, 36.
Cohen and Vieira shared a 38-year marriage, having tied the knot in 1986. Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at just 25 years old, Cohen candidly disclosed his condition to Vieira during their second date, a testament to his honesty and resilience.
Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic disease, which impacts the central nervous system—including the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves—eventually influenced Vieira’s decision to step back from her broadcasting career. An original co-host of The View, she transitioned from the daytime talk show in 2006 to become a co-anchor of Today. Vieira remained with the program until 2011, when she chose to retire to dedicate more time to Cohen and their three children.
“Time is one of those weird things,” she said on air at the time. “You can never get enough of it, and it just keeps ticking away. And I know that I want to spend more of mine with my husband, Richard, and my kids.”
Richard Cohen was born on February 14, 1947. He pursued a career in journalism, becoming a respected voice in media and a prolific author.
We are saddened by the passing of Richard Cohen. Richard’s strength, compassion, and dedication to the MS cause will always be remembered. 🧡 pic.twitter.com/Xdj0iqzxcH
— National MS Society (@mssociety) January 7, 2025
Cohen built an illustrious career in journalism, including working as a producer for major networks like CBS News. He contributed deeply personal and thought-provoking columns, often addressing his experiences with MS, cancer, and the broader challenges of living with chronic illness. His writing appeared in publications such as The New York Times and The Washington Post.
Cohen was also an accomplished author, penning several books, including Blindsided: Lifting a Life Above Illness and Strong at the Broken Places: Voices of Illness, a Chorus of Hope. These works resonated with readers for their candid portrayal of life with adversity.
In addition to managing the symptoms of MS—which eventually left him legally blind—Cohen overcame two battles with colon cancer and a blood clot in his lung. Despite these challenges, he remained steadfastly hopeful for a cure.
Rest In Peace.
